Hagerstown City Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Hagerstown City Park Historic District
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Washington County Museum of Fine Arts and Lower Lake
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 Location in Maryland
Location in the United States
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| Location | Roughly bounded by W. Howard St., Guilford Ave., Memorial, S. Walnut St., and the Norfolk & Western RR tracks, Hagerstown, Maryland |
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| Area | 525 acres (212 ha) |
| Architect | Burnap, George |
| Architectural style | Late 19th And Early 20th Century American Movements, Late 19th And 20th Century Revivals, Late Victorian |
| NRHP reference No. | 90001017 |
| Added to NRHP | July 5, 1990 |
Hagerstown City Park is a fun and historic public space in Hagerstown, Maryland, United States. It's located just southwest of the city center. The park is a popular spot for families and visitors, offering many activities and interesting places to explore.
Contents
History of Hagerstown City Park
How the Park Started
In 1916, people in Hagerstown really wanted a big park. So, the City of Hagerstown bought the land that would become City Park. Two years later, in 1918, the Maryland State General Assembly (which is like the state's government) created a special group called the Park Commission. This group had five members who would help manage the new park.
Developing the Park's Features
A few years later, in 1921, a swampy area in the park was drained. This created the beautiful Lower Lake that you can see today. Then, in 1924, a kind couple named Mr. and Mrs. Singer gave a wonderful gift to City Park: the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts. This museum is still a big part of the park.
A Special Place in History
Hagerstown City Park has been called "America's Second Most Beautiful City Park." That's a pretty big compliment! Since 1989, it has also been known as a special "Preservation Design District" locally. This means it's an important area to protect because of its history and beauty. In 1990, the park was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places. This list includes places across the country that are important to American history. The area around the park, with its homes built between 1890 and 1930, is also part of this historic district.
Fun Things to Do at City Park
Hagerstown City Park has lots of cool things to do for everyone! You can find many ways to have fun and stay active here.
Outdoor Activities and Sports
- Walking Paths: There are many paths perfect for walking, running, or biking.
- Playgrounds: Kids can enjoy several playgrounds with swings and slides.
- Sports Facilities: If you like sports, you'll find lighted tennis courts and a baseball field.
- Concerts and Events: An outdoor stage in the middle of the park hosts many city events and concerts.
- Paddle Boats: You can even rent paddle boats to explore Lower Lake!
- Fitness Events: The park also hosts different fitness activities throughout the year.
Museums and Historic Sites
City Park is home to some of Hagerstown's most interesting museums and historic places:
- Washington County Museum of Fine Arts: This museum has amazing art collections.
- Mansion House Art Gallery: Another great spot to see local art.
- Western Maryland 202 Locomotive Display and Museum: Here, you can see a real historic train and learn about its past.
- Hager House and Museum: This was once the home of Jonathan Hager, who founded Hagerstown. It's a great place to learn about the city's beginnings.
Gallery
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Walking path through willows in Hagerstown City Park.
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Lower Lake with Potomac Towers in the background
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Walkway encircling Lower Lake
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Across Lower Lake looking to the Art Museum
- Hagerstown City Park Historic District, Washington County, including photo from 1989, at Maryland Historical Trust
